introduction
As the sun shines brighter and the days grow longer, I find myself drawn to fresh flavors and vibrant colors. One of my favorite dishes to celebrate spring is a colorful Spring Pea & Lemon Orzo Salad. I remember the first time I made it for a picnic with friends. The bright green peas and the zesty lemon dressing brought smiles all around. This recipe matters to me because it captures the joyful essence of spring. Every bite is a reminder of warmer days and making memories with loved ones. What makes this recipe special is its simplicity. It’s light, refreshing, and perfect for any occasion.
why make this recipe
This Spring Pea & Lemon Orzo Salad is an excellent choice for a variety of reasons. First, it combines the sweetness of peas with the brightness of lemon, creating a perfect spring dish. It’s quick to prepare, making it an ideal option for busy weeknights or laid-back weekend gatherings. Plus, it’s great for sharing at potlucks or BBQs, bringing a burst of freshness to the table. The dish is also versatile, letting you use whatever herbs you have on hand.
how to make Spring Pea & Lemon Orzo Salad
Ingredients
- 1 cup of orzo pasta
- 2 cups of sweet peas (fresh or frozen)
- 1/4 cup of fresh herbs (such as mint, parsley, or basil)
- 1/4 cup of olive oil
- Juice of 1 lemon
- Zest of 1 lemon
- Salt and pepper to taste
Directions
- Cook the orzo pasta according to package instructions. Drain and let cool.
- In a large bowl, combine the cooked orzo, sweet peas, and chopped fresh herbs.
- In a small bowl, whisk together the olive oil, lemon juice, lemon zest, salt, and pepper.
- Pour the dressing over the orzo salad and toss to combine.
- Serve chilled or at room temperature.
how to serve Spring Pea & Lemon Orzo Salad
This salad is best served cold or at room temperature. You can serve it as a light lunch or as a side dish at dinner. It pairs wonderfully with grilled chicken, fish, or a simple bread. You can also sprinkle some extra herbs or lemon zest on top for an added touch.
how to store Spring Pea & Lemon Orzo Salad
You can store any leftovers in an airtight container in the refrigerator. It should stay fresh for up to three days. If you find the salad is a bit dry after storage, you can add a splash of olive oil or a squeeze of lemon juice before serving again.
tips to make Spring Pea & Lemon Orzo Salad
- Feel free to adjust the herbs based on your preference or what you have on hand. Basil, mint, or dill work well.
- For a protein boost, you can add some cooked chicken or chickpeas.
- If you want extra crunch, consider adding some chopped nuts or seeds.
variation
You can add in different vegetables like diced cucumber or bell peppers for added color and texture. For a creamier version, try mixing in some feta cheese.
FAQs
1. Can I use frozen peas?
Yes, frozen peas work perfectly! Just thaw them before adding to the salad.
2. How can I make this salad vegan?
This recipe is already vegan-friendly! Just ensure that any herbs used are fresh and not processed with animal products.
3. What can I pair this salad with?
This salad pairs well with grilled meats, seafood, or can be served as a stand-alone vegetarian dish. It’s a great side for picnics or gatherings.
Spring Pea & Lemon Orzo Salad
Ingredients
Main ingredients
- 1 cup orzo pasta Cook according to package instructions.
- 2 cups sweet peas Can be fresh or frozen.
- 1/4 cup fresh herbs Use mint, parsley, or basil.
- 1/4 cup olive oil Extra virgin recommended.
- 1 unit lemon (juice) Freshly squeezed.
- 1 unit lemon (zest) For added flavor.
- to taste salt and pepper Adjust to personal preference.
Method
Preparation
- Cook the orzo pasta according to package instructions. Drain and let cool.
- In a large bowl, combine the cooked orzo, sweet peas, and chopped fresh herbs.
- In a small bowl, whisk together the olive oil, lemon juice, lemon zest, salt, and pepper.
- Pour the dressing over the orzo salad and toss to combine.
- Serve chilled or at room temperature.